2009 Toyota Highlander vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (266 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Toyota Highlander (249 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota Highlander | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Highlander | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 266 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2480 mm |
